Three lecturers from the Chemistry Study Program, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), have once again achieved international recognition by fulfilling an invitation from Universiti Malaya as invited speakers at the international seminar entitled “Advances in Material Functionalisation”, organized by the Nanotechnology and Catalysis Research Centre (NANOCAT) on May 15, 2026.
The presence of UNAIR Chemistry academics at the scientific forum serves as evidence that research developed within UNAIR has gained international attention, particularly in the fields of functional materials, nanotechnology, health, and the environment. The seminar was also attended by researchers and academics from various countries to discuss the latest innovations in the development of sustainable advanced materials.
On this occasion, Prof. Mochamad Zakki Fahmi, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D. presented research entitled “Boron-Doped Carbon Dots Cancer Therapy.” This research discusses the development of boron-doped carbon dots as an innovative nanomaterial with the potential to be used for more effective and selective cancer therapy. The topic attracted considerable attention from seminar participants due to its strong prospects in the development of nanomaterial-based healthcare technologies.
Meanwhile, Dr. Alfa Akustia Widati, S.Si., M.Si. delivered a presentation entitled “Functional Hydrophobic Systems: Engineering Nanoscale Surface Interfaces for Structural Robustness and Smart Responsiveness.” In her presentation, Dr. Alfa explained the development of functional hydrophobic systems through engineering nanoscale surface interfaces capable of improving structural durability while providing environmentally responsive properties. This innovation has broad application potential in waterproof coating technologies, corrosion-resistant materials, and modern smart coatings.
Equally compelling, Satya Candra Wibawa Sakti, M.Sc., Ph.D. presented research entitled “Designing Recollectable Green Magnetic Adsorbents: Structure-Property-Performance Insights for Rapid Water Purification.” This research focuses on the development of environmentally friendly magnetic adsorbents that can be reused for rapid and efficient water purification. This technology is considered highly relevant in addressing global challenges related to clean water provision and sustainable waste management.
The participation of these three UNAIR Chemistry lecturers as international speakers not only strengthens UNAIR’s global reputation but also opens opportunities for research collaboration with various international institutions. Their participation represents a tangible contribution from academics of the Department of Chemistry, Universitas Airlangga, in delivering scientific innovations capable of providing solutions to various global challenges, ranging from healthcare to environmental technology.
